Alpine plants can survive at high elevation in the Northeast mountains because of our unique weather. High winds and moisture laden clouds cause icing and mechanical breaking of trees and shrubs that try to grow too high. Blowing of snow off the soil also creates a tough winter environment for many plants. These factors benefit low growing alpine plants that thrive with no over story and little snow pack. Alpine plants have evolved many strategies to deal with exposed windy and cold environments. One example is the tight tussock formations of Diapensia, that have darkening leaf color in winter that captures more heat and dense growth that holds in more warmth. Learn more about what AMC scientists are learning about the unique alpine environments of the Northeast.

Stay up to date with our live flower map that includes staff flower reports plus those of citizen scientists who are helping us track flowering times on the trail.